Compressor Clutch Coil: Description and Operation

The compressor clutch coil is electromagnetic and provides a way to engage the compressor clutch plate. The electromagnetic coil unit, hub bearing and pulley assembly are retained on the compressor front housing with snap rings. The compressor clutch and coil assembly are the only serviced parts on the compressor.

The coil is controlled by the heater - A/C mode control switch, a/c pressure transducer, evaporator probe, thermal limiter switch, compressor clutch relay and Powertrain Control Module (PCM). When the clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch plate into contact with the pulley. When the coil is not energized the pulley freewheels on the clutch hub bearing, which is part of the pulley.